President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately vacate the court order freezing the accounts of the Osun State Government, citing concerns over the timing of the action as the state prepares for its governorship election.
In a statement issued from the State House on Thursday, the President disclosed that he became aware of the court order obtained by the EFCC on August 5, 2026, freezing the state’s accounts. While affirming the anti-graft agency’s constitutional mandate, Tinubu expressed concern that the move could create the impression of federal interference in the electoral process.
The President said he was “deeply embarrassed” by the timing of the EFCC’s action, stressing that although he had no prior knowledge of the development, actions taken by federal institutions are often attributed to the Presidency.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to the independence of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies, noting that he has consistently refrained from interfering in the operational activities of the EFCC and other investigative bodies.
According to him, strong democratic institutions must be allowed to function professionally, independently and within the ambit of the law without fear, favour or political interference.
The President, however, noted that while he had not been fully briefed on the circumstances that prompted the EFCC to obtain the court order, the timing of the action was inappropriate given the proximity of the Osun governorship election.
“Osun State is only a few days away from its gubernatorial election. Therefore, nothing ought to be done to give an impression that the EFCC or indeed any other agency of the Federal Government is being used to interfere with the election,” he stated.
Tinubu said preserving public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process necessitated his intervention. He consequently directed the EFCC to immediately return to court to vacate the order freezing the Osun State Government’s accounts and discontinue all related actions against the state.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the integrity, credibility and fairness of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and electoral process.
